A Demon's Tale

A week.

An entire week had passed since the radiant braveheart last left her throne room.

Every day, her soldiers attempted to provide her with food and water in order to keep her sustained.

Yet she accepted none of it.

Even her sleep was in small bursts throughout the day.

Her troops continued to focus on her health as the greatest priority.

After placing the daily, unconsumed food beside her throne, they kept their focus on the other tasks that involved her.

Tending to her clothes, dusting the castle, preparing what was needed for the day after.

A cycle that many had grown used to.

It was a cycle that they could not understand. One that they did not know whether it would end or continue until she perished.

As the day went on, they continued their work with sadness infecting their bodies.

A sadness that could not be washed away.

A sadness that would only continue to grow.

However, though the sadness persisted within them–

SLAM

Each of them jumped in shock as the throne room door had suddenly opened.

In the door frame was an azure woman with beautiful red hair. In one hand, which was quickly corrected to two after her entrance, was a tray with a dirty plate and an empty glass. Her eyes no longer sagged from the lack of sleep nor was there an empty void within her look. Her body had not thinned in the slightest.

The same woman who stood in between the doors had looked the same as the one many were fond of.

Before even a single soldier could speak…

Devi: [Right then. I apologize for the delay, everyone. I shall compensate with an immediate charge in orders.]

Nearby the azure braveheart, a girl dazzling with jewelry across her body slowly made her way to the woman she served. Her voice was low in tone and did not have very much joy behind it.

Sol: [Lady Devi…]

Devi: [I’d like to request that we receive as many reports as possible for the time being. I will handle the paperwork of things in the meantime, so I would like to ask that you all bring the most important troubles at hand directly to me. We’ll split this evenly through the days and thus we can solve a great number of issues in return. I believe that should suffice for the abrupt halt.]

Sol: [Lady Devi…]

Devi: [Is that understood, everyone?]

Bloodfire Soldiers: [Y-Yes, Your Highness!]

From the hundreds of soldiers in front of her came an echoed acceptance of her words. However, there was one who did not do so. One who shared the same feeling as the others within the same room, yet she refused to agree.

Devi: [Thank you. With that, I shall focus on the paperwork as ment–]

Sol: [Lady Devi!]

Hearing the loud shout beside her, Devi turned to face a distressed Sol.

Devi: [Ah, I’m sorry, Sol. I did not notice you until now. Is everything alright?]

Sol’s face quivered with the same sad look as before.

Sol: [N-No! Not at all! Nothing is alright! You aren’t alright!]

Devi: [I would not say that is true, Sol. I feel quite fine at the moment.]

Sol: [You’re lying! I know you’re lying! You might be able to muster up an insane level of courage when you’re on a mission, but I know for a fact that none of that bravery is here now! You’re putting on a face for all of us! Even someone like you can’t recover that quickly!]

Devi tilted her head in confusion over Sol’s statement.

Devi: [I don’t understand what you mean, Sol.]

Sol: [You do know! Please, if you just need to talk to one of us, then talk! That’s all you need to do! I and the others don’t wanna see you like this!]

Finally grasping at what was being said, Devi gently handed the tray to a nearby soldier and placed her hands on Sol’s shoulders.

Devi: [Sol, death is something we must all come to terms with. I know it is hard, but we must eventually move on, correct? As a ruler, I should not focus solely on these things. Now I must focus on my duties, so I would like to apologize but I must return to the office room. While I do so, I would like to ask for you and Estrella to take care of Divinia and Yuri. Thank you for your concern, Sol.]

Watching as Devi walked away, Sol clenched a single hand, ready to strike her from behind. Unable to bring herself to do so, however, she gritted her teeth and closed her eyes in pain. She attempted to slug the wall beside her, but even the idea of that had bothered her.

Finally, she opened her furious eyes and looked towards the distant Devi. In her mind, she responded.

Sol: [No, Lady Devi. You’re wrong. Death might be something we have to come to terms with, but I can tell. I can see it perfectly from your own image. You haven’t. Not in the slightest. You’re just doing this to ignore what you should be focusing on. You haven’t even mourned for him properly. It’s exactly like I said. You’re just putting on a face for us. Eventually, you’ll break, and it might just be at the worst time possible.]

Though the world continued to view Devi Bloodfire as The Braveheart for the decades to come, those who served her could tell that the legend had long since died.

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Before the sun had set, the military group of the Bloodfire family continued to perform their work as usual. From the sun rising to the same light being lowered into the night sky, they worked through the day in the same way as any other had done. Within this group were countless skilled soldiers, along with vehicles of transportation for any terrain.

Underneath an incredibly thin jet was a man with short red hair and a stubble around his face. Using the tools in his hands, he continued to work on the jet from below as a nearby soldier approached. Though he could not see them, he took quick notice of their footsteps and called out to the soldier.

???: [Sup? Anything wrong?]

Bloodfire Soldier: [No sir! I just came to let you know that the day is almost finished!]

Suddenly, the man’s happy tone grew into a far greater joy.

???: [I see, I see! That’s some real good news to hear! I’ll get to see my wife after these long few days! It’s been a real struggle not seeing her, you know! It really hurts to not have your other half beside you at all times! Wouldn’t you agree?]

Bloodfire Soldier: [I’m not sure what that feels like, sir… I don’t have a lover of my own…]

Rolling out from underneath, the man raised an eyebrow to the soldier while keeping the same smile as before.

???: [Huh?! You don’t?! We’ll have to fix that at some point. Tell you what, maybe me and my bro will go out for some drinks sometime and help you find your special someone!]

Bloodfire Soldier: [R-Really, sir?! It would be an honor!]

???: [Haha! We aren’t some big shots like our Grams just yet! Even then, I don’t know that either of us, or Tina for that matter, would want to be. Anyways, I have no problem with it. I just need to ask him. Sound good?]

Bloodfire Soldier: [Yes sir! I’ll gladly accept the offer!]

As the man stood up from the ground, he slowly placed a hand against a wing to avoid hitting his head. Moving over to a desk nearby, he removed his gloves and picked up a newsboy cap, dusted it off with his hand and placed it on his head.

???: [Speaking of him, where’s he at?]

Bloodfire Soldier: [He’s working by the search boats, Alf sir!]

Adjusting the front of his hat, Alf Bloodfire exited the garage and turned to stare at the docks nearby.

Alf: [So he’s over there, huh? Guess I’ll go speak to him for a bit before I finish up. Mind closing things down here for me?]

Bloodfire Soldier: [Of course, sir!]

Alf: [Thank you kindly!]

Turning to the soldier and giving a thumbs up, Alf continued his stride over to the docks with his hands in his pockets.

His outfit displayed a rather carefree mood about him. A white button down not fastened by the top three buttons revealing the top of his chest underneath. Beige slacks were worn beneath, with black and white running shoes at the end of his attire. There was not very much that exploded outward from his image, yet his entire personality was conveyed to all with the simple clothes he had chosen. Many thought of him as a man that did as he pleased while also staying true to his heart.

As he moved towards the docks, a wave of new sights, sounds and smells welcomed him. The endless ocean beyond. The rich smell of the sea. The sounds of small waves pushing against the nearby boats, and in turn, the boats creating echoed sounds of their own. On top of those sounds were the sounds of supplies being moved around the middlemost boat to his left.

Making his way over, Alf leaned his back against the boat behind him as he spoke to the worker.

Alf: [As focused as ever, aren’t you? The day’s almost done and you’re still going at it like it just started.]

In response, a calm voice that was a tad deeper than Alf’s emerged.

???: [Well, it’s technically a better choice than the one you’re making. Coming over here to talk to me while you still have one more jet to fix.]

Bouncing off the boat behind him, Alf was surprised by the comment he had received.

Alf: [Wha–How do you know about that?!]

???: [Tina gave me a heads up before you headed over here. She told me to tell you to wrap it up so we can all head home for the day.]

Clicking his tongue, Alf looked towards the endless sea beside him.

Alf: [Tch. Honestly, you two are way too nosy. I just came to talk with my bro and meanwhile both he and my sis decide to ridicule me. You two really are cruel.]

???: [So? What did you come by to speak to me about?]

Alf: [One of the guys doesn’t have a girl, so I figured we should grab drinks with him sometime and find him one. I wanted to know if you were interested.]

With a large wheel of rope in hand, the man placed it down by the back of the ship as he continued to speak to Alf.

???: [I guess it wouldn’t hurt. Think we should bring–]

Alf: [If you’re gonna say what I think you’re gonna say, then no. If the guy finds a girl who decides to hit on either one of us, then one of them is gonna kill her.]

???: [Fair enough. Sure. I don’t mind. Just gotta find the time for it with work and the family.]

Alf: [Look at you, the big sailor man with all the parental duties in the world!]

???: [I can’t help it when I’ve got a strong lover. She really knows when to strike in order to make the family just a little bit bigger.]

Alf: [Well that works to your own benefit, right? You’ll have a whole family of sailors by the time they’re grown up!]

Ducking down, the man inspected the walls of the boat.

???: [My family of sailors, your family of engineers. It’ll be a pretty interesting future for our name.]

Alf: [Good. We could use some new titles. I don’t know about you but it gets a little bit tiring to hear everything attributed to Grams. There aren’t even that many people who talk about Mom all that much.]

???: [Yeah. I guess that’s true.]

Moving his red eyes over to the rows of garages, Alf adjusted his hat as he started to move back to his station.

Alf: [Well, that’s all I came to say. Hope you’re ready for all of them to come back tonight.]

???: [Yeah. I’m pretty much finished here, so I need to head back, pick up the kids from Kōkatsu’s and make dinner for the family. The kids might get cranky if they don’t get food on time. Two of them anyways. I’m not sure Yui would complain.]

Alf: [Heh. I feel that. Also, you don’t mind if me and Sil come by to have some as well, do you?]

???: [Not at all. It’s a special occasion, when you really think about it.]

Alf: [Yeah, that’s true. Well, I’m gonna go finish up. I’ll let you know when they’re all back, Xan.]

Waving off to his brother, the same gesture was given back to Alf.

???: [Thanks! Don’t take too long with things!]

As he watched Alf leave, the man adjusted his long red and white coat. Underneath it sat a dress shirt of blue that was fully buttoned, though his muscular chest made it seem like the buttons would soon pop. Stepping out of the boat, the man managed to get little to no water on his dark gray dress pants, leaving only his boots of the same color to absorb most of it. With a damp towel, he wiped off his hands as he looked towards the beautiful sunset above.

Xander: [I guess I haven’t seen her longer than Alf hasn’t seen Silvia. I hope she’s doing alright.]

Finishing his work, the man with blood red hair cascading down to his lower neck and eyes of the same crimson color, Xander Bloodfire, prepared to leave his station and head home for the day.

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In a large hospital within the country of Itazura, the former ruler of the world, Devi Bloodfire, rested her eyes. Seated on a small chair among countless others, she gently raised her eyelids with a somber look drowning the crimson jewels that were now displayed. As she looked down towards her own legs, a large kitsune with nine fluffy orange tails approached her.

Kōkatsu: [Somethin’ wrong, Devi?]

Raising her head, Devi could now see the face of the Mother of All, Kōkatsu the Almighty. With a polite smile, she shut her eyes again as she responded.

Devi: [I’m alright. Thank you for asking, Kōkatsu. I was just… having an odd dream is all. One that displayed something I had experienced many years ago.]

Kōkatsu: [I can tell. Ya look all blue.]

???: [I’m confused. She always looks blue.]

Kōkatsu: [GAH!]

Startled by the sudden interjection, both Kōkatsu and Devi turned to face a friend who had just returned. One who was dressed in all white, with a purple aster in her hair.

Devi: [Shiro!]

Noticing that Shiro had returned, Devi gave a bright smile as she stood up from her chair. Kōkatsu however was still confused with how she snuck in so quietly without her noticing.

Extending her hand, Shiro presented a book to Devi.

Shiro: [Here you are. It’s all in there.]

Devi: [Fantastic! We’re now one step closer to our goal!]

Kōkatsu: [Did the book reveal anythin’, Shiro?]

Turning to the curious kitsune on the side, Shiro smiled.

Shiro: [A lot, actually. The book was a bit damaged, but other than that, it did explain the weakness of those tablets. It confirmed that gaining immortality is something they can grant, but if the heart is destroyed, then it can’t regenerate anything.]

Kōkatsu’s eyebrows were lifted up against her forehead.

Kōkatsu: [Wait, so if the heart isn’t destroyed, the person can regenerate whatever part they need? Is that what I’m gettin’?]

Shiro: [It’s exactly like you said. Even if we hit Nero with everything we had, if his heart isn’t pierced or eviscerated, he’ll just come right back.]

Devi: [Then we shall do just that. I did not wish for such a thing as killing him to be the solution, but unfortunately, we must do what is necessary. Was there anything else?]

Shiro: [We brought a lady from the facility with us. You’re probably gonna want to talk to her, either tonight or tomorrow. For now, my trio are cautiously guarding her, and after we make it to the Babylon District, we’ll try to transfer her to a safe house.]

Devi: [I see. I’ll keep that in mind for later.]

Flipping through the pages, Devi gained a soft yet still somber smile as she continued to look.

Devi: [It’s rather nice reading some of the details in here. Seeing text regarding my mother… I haven’t seen her since I was eight years old.]

Sharing the somber look, Kōkatsu turned to the regal succubus beside her.

Kōkatsu: [She passed that quick, huh?]

Devi: [Yes. It was during a mission. One that I was told she gladly put her life on the line for.]

Kōkatsu: [I see…]

Oddly, Kōkatsu turned her eyes towards Shiro without a word to follow. Confused by this, Shiro tilted her head.

Shiro: [What’s wrong, Kō?]

Kōkatsu: [Haaah. Nothing. She’ll probably tell ya once she finds out.]

After her deep sigh, Kōkatsu walked towards a different side of the room, leaving only the succubi to speak with each other. That and–

???: [Welcome back, Sssshiro.]

Quickly turning to meet the familiar voice behind her, Shiro’s confusion was replaced with a great smile as she saw another close friend. A snake woman colored in purple, with a large puffy coat of red.

Shiro: [I’m glad you’re up and moving, Sil!]

Silvia: [I’m feeling much better thankssss to Kaoru. I am now able to ssssee my hussssband with a loving embrasssse.]

Shiro: [Shit! That’s right! Kaoru! I forgot to tell Kō something!]

Devi: [Judging by the contents of this book, I presume it involves her village?]

Shiro: [Yeah. Even if I don’t have a face or anything that could define the person, I think I now know the name of who moved her village.]

Devi: [Akinori.]

The air around them grew silent for a few moments, before Shiro snapped back to attention.

Shiro: [Right. We should probably continue with our whole plan. What’s next, Devi?]

Closing the book, Devi looked up to Shiro with a confident smile.

Devi: [Our plan from here is simple, we shall return to the Babylon District and use the time that we have to prepare. I would gauge that roughly a week will be available to us before another attack might commence. Thus, we’ll use that time wisely and prepare for the upcoming battle.]

Shiro: [Great! I was starving after all of that flying anyways! Let’s get going!]

Silvia: [Indeed. I wissssh to ssssee my Alfy assss ssssoon assss posssssible.]

Kōkatsu: [Awww, but I was feelin’ nostalgic here! I didn’t even get to buy a mask or anythin’!]

Remerging from behind Silvia and Shiro was the same close kitsune friend as before, causing both to turn to face her.

Shiro: [Oh, right. I guess you were raised here in Itazura, right?]

Kōkatsu: [Raised is a weird way to put it, but yeah. I raised myself here. I usually wore a mask. Kinda why I wanted to get one. After I was old enough, I was invited to the same school as you two.]

Silvia: [I’ve heard the country issss quite rich. Both in sssscenary and in the ssssensssse of money.]

Kōkatsu: [Yeah. S’basically one big rich kingdom. Tons of cash to throw around, entertainment, pleasure, and all around beautiful. To a lot of people, s’heaven. Though, there are some shady black market type parts to it. Some that haven’t gotten removed no matter how much time has passed.]

Shiro: [I suppose that’s what should be expected from places like this. There’s always enough money being tossed that the heinous stuff goes under the radar.]

Kōkatsu: [Yep. But enough ‘bout the gloomy bits, let’s head home! I wanna see how all my brats are doin’!]

Shiro: [Right. Ready to go, Devi?]

With a firm nod, Devi responded to her.

Devi: [Of course. Men! Let’s move out!]

Everyone: [Yeah!]

After Devi’s loud shout to the countless troops behind her, both from her own and of others, a roar of cheers was given. As the roar formed, Shiro began to smile before noticing that Kōkatsu had moved close to her ear.

Kōkatsu: [I overheard ya earlier. Don’t worry. The name of the person was Akinori, right?]

Though her smile faded, Shiro kept a firm look as she confirmed the name.

Shiro: [Yeah. There’s no guarantee it’s him, but the details from the book lined up with the idea of a whole village moving.]

Kōkatsu: [... Thanks, Shiro. I really mean that. Now I know who to slug for hurtin’ my little girl.]

And thus, the smile returned.

Shiro: [Of course. Make sure to give him one for me as well!]

Kōkatsu: [Heh. I’ll do ya one better. He’ll get two.]

As the trio approached a nearby door, Devi came up to Shiro from the side and placed a hand on her shoulder.

Shiro: [Hm? What’s up, Devi?]

Devi: [Shiro, if you don’t mind, I have a bit of an odd request. Before anything else, I hope it’s alright if I could meet your mother in person.]

Hearing her mother mentioned, Shiro started to sweat as she realized the freakout that might happen should the two meet.

Shiro: [Oh, well, my mom is usually busy these days with stuff and–]

Devi: [Please. I do not wish to plead, but I beg of you. I wish to meet her.]

She couldn’t understand why Devi so desperately wanted to meet her. It’s true that Shiro’s mother was famous. She was once Airi the Hero after all. However, she had long since buried her old name and formed a new one with her husband, that being Airi Fuloreen. Even if her first name was the same, Devi would not know very much regarding her in the first place. She merely had the records of Shiro’s family from ten years prior, and nothing past that.

After releasing a deep breath, Shiro voiced her answer.

Shiro: [Alright. I accept. You can meet her.]

A soft smile rose on Devi’s face.

Devi: [Thank you, Shiro.]

Moving towards the door again, the group departed from the country of Itazura. Due to Shiro's circumstance as she was still a wanted woman to many, the group successfully hid her beneath the floorboards as they arrived at the border.

Soon, with the stars glimmering in the night sky, the group would arrive at the Babylon District.

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As the carriages reached the Babylon District, many had woken up from their slumber and started to stretch their bodies as they prepared to exit the carts. In one particular carriage sat a succubus clad in white, with two other goddesses seated nearby. One who had worn a blue and white kimono with a red hakama placed in the middle of their stomach, and while the other merely wore a puffy red coat. In the same cart with those three was the former ruler of the world, dressed in red and black with gold outlining her figure, minus an area that had been chipped. Not a single one had stood yet, however that quickly changed as a new individual opened up the back of the cart for them.

From the small open top of the back, they witnessed a man with short red hair covered by a newsboy cap and a stubble.

Alf: [Alright ladies, the free ride is over. Please pass your tickets and–Woah!]

Before the man could finish his joke, the door was busted open by a charging snake goddess. One who tackled him to the ground and attacked his face with her long tongue before placing it back into her mouth, and repeating the action several times over.

Alf: [I missed you too, honey!]

Silvia: [You sssshall sssspend the nexsssst twenty four hourssss with me, with no downtime for yoursssself. Issss that undersssstood?]

Alf: [Yes, ma’am.]

Looking towards the carriage behind his wife, Alf gave a smile to the remaining three.

Alf: [Shiro, Kōkatsu, good to see you two. Grams, good to see you as well. Hope everything’s been alright for you.]

Devi: [Of course. Though, it seems your wife was not very pleased by your inability to keep secrets.]

Alf: [Inability to… Oh shit! I totally forgot that I told you about that, Grams! I didn’t mean to speak up, Sil! I promise!]

Silvia: [Thissss issss exssssactly why my twenty four hour demand included tonight.]

Alf: [... Should I be scared?]

Silvia: [You sssshould be.]

Taking a puff from her kiseru, Kōkatsu gave a smile to the two as she waved.

Kōkatsu: [Well, before the two of ya start rawdogin’ it on the grass in front of everyone, I’m gonna head home and check on my kids. I’ll drop by Shiro’s place for dinner later.]

Alf: [Oh, right! Thanks for reminding me! Shiro, mind if we have dinner at your place as well? It’ll be a nice little meal for all of us and when I asked–]

After seeing a terrifying glare in Shiro’s eyes, Alf’s voice suddenly gained a nervous stutter behind it.

Alf: [Asked… about it happening sometime before the whole Nero thing went down, you said that would be cool… right? Because that’s when I asked and… yeah… heheh…]

Shiro: [Sure. I don’t mind. I’m just gonna go visit my mom with Devi and we’ll decide where she’s staying from there. Preferably with you guys I’d say. I don’t wanna be a bother to her.]

Alf: [Sounds good to me. Right, Sil?]

Silvia: [That goessss againsssst my wisssshessss.]

Much like Shiro’s before, a stern look was given to Alf again from his loving wife.

Alf: [Look, I’m sure we’ll find time for it tonight, we just gotta wait.]

Silvia: [... Fine.]

Shiro: [Perfect! Then I’ll just head on over to my mom’s place, then we’ll go to yours so Devi can stay there for a bit and the three of us will have dinner together!]

Devi: [May I ask why I am not included in that dinner, Shiro?]

The sweat from a few hours prior paled in comparison to the waterfall that now washed over Shiro’s entire appearance.

Shiro: [... W-Well, see it’s kind of a complicated thing because my house… isn’t in the perfect shape right now. Not that it’s messy but I…]

Silvia: [Sssshiro’ssss family prepared a gift for you and they do not want you to ssssee it.]

Shiro: [Y-Yes! That! That’s exactly why! So we can’t go anywhere near there! I’ll hand it off to you after our dinner is finished!]

Devi: [I see. It’s rather odd, and a little bit saddening to hear, but I understand. I shall patiently wait for this gift. Shall we move to your mother’s house?]

Shiro: [Yeah. Let’s go. See you two at dinner!]

Silvia and Alf: [See you then!]

After smiling at the two, Shiro turned her head over her shoulder and gave a brief shout to a single carriage.

Shiro: [Hidari! Migi! Bachi! I’m trusting Haruka and the carriages with you!]

In that very same distant carriage, three voices rang out.

Hidari and Migi: [Yes, Lady Shiro!]

Bachi: [Stop barkin’ orders at me! I got it already!]

After taking several steps away from the couple and the carts behind them, the two were now alone. In the midst of their walk, the Devi who had often not been the one to start a conversation sprouted a question.

Devi: [Shiro, have you ever heard of the tale of the Red Dragon and the Charred Pheasant?]

Turning to face Devi as they walked, Shiro’s eyes widened by a smidgen.

Shiro: [Huh? No. I don’t think I have. My mom never told me a story like that.]

Devi: [It’s quite an interesting old tale. Perhaps you’ve heard a version of it before, as many have created their own. The story tells of a charred pheasant that struggles as it climbs a mountain. The height of the mountain being so grand, it pierces that of the clouds above. As it arrives at the top, the pheasant awakens a red dragon within the cave nearby. The dragon asks the pheasant why it persists to live when there is nothing to gain by doing so, questioning himself on whether or not he should eat the bird. In response, the pheasant tells him that living does not need a reason behind it, as to live is a gift in and of itself. The dragon becomes curious of its words, and chooses to slowly help the pheasant. With each passing day, the dragon learns more about the world, which he could not see from his mighty throne in the sky. Eventually, the dragon understands the gift that the pheasant describes and provides all of the power he can share onto the pheasant, turning it into a beautiful phoenix of black. From there, the two discover the world together. The story ends on a rather interesting statement. The charred pheasant helps the lonesome dragon, and the lonesome dragon helps the charred pheasant. The two create an endless cycle of life, granting peace onto the land below.]

Silent with awe over the story, Shiro listened to every detail with her soul.

Shiro: [Wow… That’s a really good tale. Even if it’s short, there’s a lot to unpack there.]

Devi: [Indeed. It was among my favorites that my mother had told me.]

Moving her sad eyes down, Shiro scratched the back of her hair.

Shiro: [I know it was nothing but… sorry for the other day, Devi. I acted like I knew everything there was about your family and was only interested in Tequi’s, but that’s not the truth at all. There’s some stuff I’m not sure I can speak about yet, but I can definitely say that I don’t know enough. Hell, when I met Kōkatsu, I wasn’t familiar with your family at all. I had no idea about anything regarding you or your mother.]

Though Shiro was sad over what she had done, Devi still continued to smile at her.

Devi: [It is quite alright, Shiro. I understood that you knew some things. After all, you’re friends with my grandson, Alf. Besides, I’m not sure many know about my mother, even if you should have…]

Wiping the sadness with more confusion than ever before, Shiro looked back at Devi again.

Shiro: [What do you mean? I should have known about your mom?]

Silent for a few moments, Devi looked up at the sky.

Devi: [I had told you about how I lost my mother when I was around eight years old, correct?]

Shiro: [Yeah, that’s what you mentioned to me and the others. Kō had a weird look on her face when you did so, though.]

Devi: [... Around that time, my mother had gone on a mission. One she did not come back from, nor could she. Her death along with the death of Tequi’s father was forced upon them. Despite the harsh scenario, the two of them had accepted it. The news regarding their deaths was then twisted shortly after. This too was something they had already been aware of and accepted]

Shiro: [That’s terrible…]

Devi: [Indeed. It was a mission that they had not known the full details of, thus their fates were determined from the start. They were not alone on this mission, as two others had joined them. One was a man named Lupo. The other was a sixteen year old girl that Tequi’s father, Ginsa, had met only a few days prior. From there, their group became a powerful force on a level like no other. As for Lupo, he had completely vanished following the mission.]

Shiro: [And the girl?]

Devi: [Following my mother’s death, the girl visited both Tequi and myself. I’m unsure of the details regarding Tequi, but I can only assume that it was the same as my own. She stepped into the door, and when asked who she was by the maids, she only requested to speak to me. It took quite some time for them to leave the room, but they had ultimately done so. After they left, she told me everything. The fact that my mother was dead, what had really happened despite what news reports had said, every detail regarding it. She then told me to grow up strong and I did not see her face again.]

Shiro: [... I guess she went missing too, right?]

Devi: [... I’m ashamed of my actions. From that day forward, that kind soul was someone who I wished to help in any way I could. She had done the same for me without knowing, and thus, I wished to do the same for her. When I was old enough, I used every resource I could to keep track of her. No matter where she went, what she did, I wanted to know that she was alright. I felt horrible. Every hour, I was stalking this woman who was eight years older than me without her even knowing. I feel as though I can no longer face her, yet I wish to.]

Shiro: [... She must have really been special, for both you and your mom I mean.]

Devi: [... Because of my mother’s death, the fighting style she had learned could not be passed down onto me. I merely knew the basics of it. Nothing more than that. However, she grew fond of that girl during her journey, from what I was told. When the time came, the moment where my mother had deduced she would die, she taught that girl everything she could regarding it. The girl did not know at the time as to why she was being taught so abruptly, but it only became clear after my mother had passed. After her passing, that girl became the new successor to the style.]

Shiro: [...I’m confused, though. How does this story relate to the fact that I should know about your mother?]

Devi: [Do you not understand, Shiro?]

Turning to greet Shiro again.

Devi provided the kindest smile she could.

Her answer… had finally arrived.

Devi: [That girl… was your mother. Airi Natsuri.]

Shiro’s eyes widened.

It was only natural.

Shiro: [...W-What…?]

Devi: [... It was fifty nine years ago. My mother had taught your very own the style of the Bloodfire family, the Babylon Way. Airi Natsuri, from that day forward, was the new successor to the style. From there, she taught you how to use it. To be quite honest, I was not even aware you were born until ten years ago, when you and your friends succeeded in the trials. Perhaps it was due to my own shame over stalking Airi that I did not wish to continue any further, but at some point in time, between the long years of love between your mother and father, and your birth, I had stopped. I must apologize again, as when I saw your last name, I immediately knew who you were and wished to meet you as quickly as possible. No matter what I tried, my letters did not make it to you. When we first met less than a week ago, I was ready to ask every question under the sun, much like Tequi had done. That’s precisely why she was so fond of you. Not only did she enjoy you as you are, but she had known your mother just like I had. The information I received regarding Airi I often shared with her. I’ve gone to such great lengths for someone who I’ve met only once, and I feel ashamed for taking such extreme measures to do so. I’m terribly sorry, Shiro! Both to you and your mother!]

Devi lowered her head.

Shiro tried to digest everything as she circled her fingers around each other.

For several seconds, the two had stopped in place with a pure silence surrounding them.

Shattering that silence, was…

Shiro: [... I don’t think you need to apologize, Devi. Even if you did everything you could to find out about her, I’m sure she’d accept you as you are. I mean, I have already. Even after everything you’ve said, you still haven’t changed in my mind. You’re Devi. The kind hearted, brave woman who continues to push forward no matter what happens. If anything, you’ve only shown me that you’re just as kind as I thought. You made sure my mom was always okay, and once she got married, you let her have some peace. I think that was enough to show just how much you care.]

As tightly as she could, Devi gripped at the knees of her pants after hearing what Shiro had to say.

Devi: [... Thank you, Shiro… I truly mean it. Thank you… To have such a kind response to my actions… I’m not worthy of such a thing…]

Shiro: [It’s no problem at all. I’m sure my mom would agree, right Mom?]

Devi’s eyes widened as she looked up, only to see Shiro standing close to a shrine. The front of which now had a short woman with blond hair near the door.

Airi: [You’re exactly right, Shiro. I’m glad I could meet you again, Devi. It would’ve been better if I was also able to see how you look now, but just this is enough.]

Devi: [S-See?! Shiro, what does she–]

Shiro: [Around two years after my dad passed, my mom went completely blind from the stress of holding her tears back. The Airi Fuloreen you’re meeting is one that can no longer see the world around her in the traditional sense, only being able to sense life now.]

Trembling, Devi looked at Airi again.

Devi: [Miss… Miss Airi…]

Airi: [It is nothing to be concerned about, Devi. I’ve caused this to myself. It’s a promise that I had no intention of breaking. Please, come in. I’ll treat you to some tea.]

As Airi stepped back inside, Devi turned to Shiro again.

Shiro: [I’ll let the two of you catch up with each other. I’ll be in a room upstairs while I wait.]

Shiro then joined her mother, leaving Devi on her own.

Gripping at her pants again, Devi’s trembling mouth shifted into a smile.

Devi: [... This family… I’m forever grateful to the Fuloreen family.]

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Standing in a small bedroom with two different beds, Shiro looked at the room around her as she waited for Devi’s return. A process that had already gone on for an hour by this point, yet she enjoyed this moment regardless of that. It was as if she was gazing at herself from many years ago, the Shiro who once lived in this very house. She couldn’t help but smile remembering all that transpired, even finding old strands of orange and black fox fur close to the guest bed.

In the midst of her nostalgic sightseeing, the door to her old room had opened as Devi entered. The two shared smiles as she did so.

Allowing her legs to rest, Shiro sat down on the bed that was once hers. Devi had then walked over, and did the same for the guest bed.

Shiro: [I guess the two of you talked about everything you needed to?]

Devi: [Yes… It was quite a long chat, but I’m glad I was able to have it. Once again, thank you, Shiro. If you were not here, I would be unable to speak with her.]

Shiro: [Like I said, it’s no problem at all. I’m sure it felt good to speak about everything, right? Plus, you seemed to have a bunch of regrets you needed to get off your chest, so I’d say that was the healthiest option available!]

Devi started to scratch her cheek in response.

Devi: [To be quite honest, I’m not sure that I’ve spoken all of my regrets…]

Shiro: [Then what’re you waiting for? My mom will gladly talk to you some more if you need to!]

Devi: [Well, no… I don’t believe it involves her, but rather, I’m unsure of things within my own mind… I’ve felt this way since late in the afternoon…]

Shiro: [Oh. I see. In that case, what’s bothering you? I’ll listen if you need someone to vent with.]

Devi: [Thank you. It’s odd, but my mind keeps thinking about my situation at the moment.]

Shiro: [Situation? What do you mean?]

Devi: [Several of my troops have fallen and it’s made me think back on my own life. I’ve been so focused on working that I did not notice how much has happened around me. I’m a grandmother already, yet I feel as though I’m still in my twenties, filing paperwork and going on expeditions. It makes me wish I could do my own life over again. Obviously, that is not an option available to use, but I do partially desire such a thing. Tequi, for instance. She spoke to me many times before. As you worded it, she was establishing a friendship with me.]

Shiro: [Yeah. I mentioned that the two of you were already close pals.]

Attempting to lighten the mood with her energy, Shiro spoke in a much more gleeful mood than Devi’s own somber tone.

Devi: [But that is the issue. I do not feel that I reciprocated these things back to her. From my end, it felt as if I was just having a meeting with her. After the competition for the throne between us, it became a regular occurrence. I didn’t think it had been that long since we did so, but after speaking about your mother with you, I’ve come to realize how much time has passed. Not to mention, there’s my… children… my…]

With a palm open underneath her face, a single drop splashed down against it.

Followed by another.

Then several more.

Devi: [... My… children… Hk!... Ghk!]

Shiro: [Devi?! Devi, what happened?!]

Rushing over to Devi’s side, Shiro placed a hand on her back and rubbed it as gently as she could.

Meanwhile, the tears did not stop. She could not stop them.

No matter how much power she had, no matter her title of Braveheart.

Nothing could stop it.

Devi: [My children… I must look like a failure to them… Hk!]

Shiro: [What are you saying?! There’s not a chance they think of you that way!]

Devi: [Divinia… I’ve neglected her own choices for so long… I was so focused on my own duties that I forced her to compete for the throne… I spent almost no time with her… Can you imagine that…? A mother who only speaks with her daughter when and about work related tasks…? Not to mention my son, Yuri, who I spent almost no time with at all… Sixity seven years… I’ve been alive for that long, and yet I’ve spent nearly forty of that glued to my own duties… My grandchildren… They all work under my family but they suffer the same fate… Their grandmother refuses to speak with them outside of these things… I can’t even be a proper family woman correctly… nor am I a good leader… Every last one of my troops… Hundreds upon thousands were killed and it’s all my fault… Sol, Estrella, all of them… I’ve lost those who were close to me… Those who were like children by oath and were raised by my own hands for years… all in the blink of an eye… But now, only now did I realize that… Every last one of them was killed and I just watched… unable to do a thing because I understood nothing!... I still don’t understand, since I’m unsure of why it took me this long to realize…]

Devi’s loud words lowered in pitch as it flashed into her mind.

The very reason she sought.

Raising her head, she looked at the wall in front of her.

Devi: [... I remember now… The oni genocide incident… and why I was not there at the time…]

Slowly, she moved her disheveled face to view Shiro’s own.

Devi: [... My husband… My husband had just died… I couldn’t do anything… because my husband had died… I spent an entire week sitting on my throne without eating or drinking… I barely got any sleep… I merely slouched on it, awaiting for a higher force to take me as well… All of those dreams I had this evening… all of it was reminding me of why I had turned out this way… I tried to work through the pain and yet, I could never let go of him… And now, I’ve done the very same thing to that man… Nero Virtuoso… I robbed him of what made him whole, creating another monster like myself…]

Shiro: [That’s not true, Devi! Not in the slightest!]

Devi: [It is true!]

Shiro jumped at the aggressive shout that roared out from Devi’s lips.

Devi: [... My entire life… has been nothing but working till I fall… The only time I had peace… was when I was with my husband… Us and our children… The moment he fell… my life was over… Perhaps seeing the state you were in earlier released me from my chains… It made me realize just how cruel I was as well… Even if I keep pushing forward now, there won’t be an ounce of love held towards me from my own family… My title as ruler, the name of Braveheart… It’s all just a mask for how hollow I truly am–]

Echoing through the room…

… was a fierce slap across Devi’s face.

In front of her, Shiro was now standing, with a furious look riddled across her own.

Shiro: [Why are you hurting yourself like this?!]

Devi: [... Shiro…]

Shiro: [There isn’t anything fake to your name! There are countless people around the world who are thankful for your help! You’re the Braveheart for a reason! You’re giving others a reason to have courage! You told me that I need to keep pushing forward, right?! Why aren’t you doing it?! Why do you need a second chance at life when you can just change things right now?! Your family doesn’t love you?! Don’t give me that bullshit! I know for a fact that they do! I’ve heard about it with my own ears!]

Devi: [...E-Even if Alf has said something, there is no guarantee that what he said is tru–]

Shiro: [I DIDN’T HEAR IT FROM ALF! I HEARD IT FROM MY HUSBAND!]

Devi’s tear filled eyes started to increase in size.

Devi: [W-What…?]

Grabbing the sides of her shirt, Shiro’s fury calmed down as she looked towards the floor.

Shiro: [... I wasn’t sure how to say anything about it… Me and him got engaged and officially married around six years ago, and he got side tracked with a bunch of planning that he forgot to tell you. For that reason, along with the past six years that I haven’t told you, I want to say to you personally that I’m incredibly sorry and I only hope you can forgive us. But I know from him that you’re loved. There were countless times through the eight years that I’ve spent with him that I would hear about you or how amazing the things you did were. He cares about you a lot. It’s not just him. Alf, Tina, I wouldn’t be surprised if your children like Divinia and Yuri feel the same way. They love you, regardless of what you do. Because you’re their grandmother, their mother. It doesn’t matter that you haven’t given them all the time that you could, just giving them enough love made them share that same love back to you.They still look at you fondly. I can say that with absolute certainty.]

Devi: [... Shiro… Your husband… When you say your husband… do you mean that you married–]

Shiro: [Xander. I was pretty happy when you compared the two of us when we met. It made me feel like him and I were one in the same. Again, I’m really sorry we said nothing!]

Though her tears still remained, a cracked smile started on Devi’s lips.

Devi: [... It’s alright, Shiro… Perhaps it is also thanks to me that such a thing was not possible.]

Shiro: [Please don’t start this again! I’m being serious when I say–]

Devi: [... No… I’ve stopped with that, thanks to you, Shiro… That is my one exception… I created quite the busy schedule for him that he likely did not have the time, along with your status as a goddess… It was terribly planned on my end, even if I had not known… But it’s thanks to the two of you that I’ve realized… I’ve put myself down due to the death of my husband and my love for him turned me into a hardened stone… But you, who shares a similar love with your very own, one who is my grandchild… If you are able to face everything in front of you, no matter what happens, thanks to him… then what am I for backing away from it? My husband should be the very reason I keep going… You and Xander are the prime example of this… Yet I chose to run… I spoke of facing the present but I could not bring myself to do so as well… It’s thanks to you, much like I had helped in turn, that I’m able to do so now.]

Lifting her head, Devi gazed at Shiro with a face that displayed more joy than sadness, even if both still clashed within her.

Devi: [I’ve said it many times, but without a single doubt, I mean it this time. Thank you, Shiro. It is not a competition, but… you are the greatest granddaughter-in-law that I could have asked for.]

Shiro: [... Like always, it’s no problem.]

Sitting back down on her old bed, Shiro crossed one leg over the other as Devi wiped her own face.

Shiro: [You’re sure you’re okay with us not telling you? I feel like that’s something you should have known.]

Devi: [I’m sure, Shiro. I believe that marriage is important and should be told to all members of a family. However, there are many reasons for why such a thing might not happen. I understand your situation, and thus, I believe it is fine. The only thing I would be upset about is not knowing if I had great grandchildren.]

Upon hearing this, Shiro lightly played with her hair and averted her eyes

Shiro: [W-Well, it’s a good thing me and him haven’t had any yet! Haha!]

Devi: [Hmhm. Be sure to let me know when you do.]

As Devi continued to clean herself off, Shiro’s smile faded as she asked her own mind a question.

Shiro: [Wait a minute…]

Before her mind could finish, a sudden, impending doom loomed in front of her.

Devi: [... Shiro.]

The answer was already given. Panic started to rise from every ounce of her body as she realized.

Shiro: [Oh fuck…]

Devi: [... Earlier today, you said you had children, correct?]

Looking back at Devi, she noticed a change in her eyes.

What was once a teary eyed gaze of sadness…

… was now a horrifying bloodshot glare back at her.

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In a large kitchen of a two story tall household was a well built man preparing multiple dishes of food. Humming a song to himself, the man cut the vegetables he had set in front of him with ease and scraped them into a bowl. As he mixed the bowl, he looked at the numerous assortments of spices in front of him. Taking one and sprinkling only a small bit into the dish, he stirred it once again to balance out the portions.

Looking over to a nearby clock, the man released a whistling sound from his lips.

Xander: [I’d better hurry. It’s already getting late and Shiro might be home soon.]

Just as he had mentioned, a knock came from the front door.

Xander: [Speak of her and she shall appear. Yui! Could you keep an eye on the oven for me and shout if smoke starts coming out?]

???: [Okay! I'll be there soon!]

Xander: [Thank you sweetie! Alright, time to greet my loving wife.]

Taking off the rubber gloves he had put on, Xander placed them on the counter and made his way over to the door. Gently opening it, he was greeted with the same woman he wished to see. Shiro Fuloreen, who oddly had a terrified look in her eyes.

Xander: [Hey honey!... What’s up? You look a bit off–]

Shiro: [Run. Now.]

Xander: [What? What do you mean ru–]

Before his question could be answered, a hand that defeated him in force had suddenly grabbed the door from the side. Forcing it to slowly open more, the figure revealed themself, causing Xander to panic as he saw–

Xander: [O-Oh… Hello Grandmother Devi. I hope you are doing well this evening.]

Devi Bloodfire, with a look that was the opposite of Shiro’s. If Shiro’s was that of someone who was horrified, Devi’s was a horrific smile for the two to see.

Devi: [Hi, Xander! May I ask a question?]

Xander: [G-Grandmother Devi… If this is about me and Shiro’s marriage, then allow me to say that it is my fault for not telling you. Please, do not get mad at her for this.]

Devi: [Oh, don’t worry, I already know! I’m not even mad about that!]

Xander: [I-I see. In that case, what exactly–]

Devi: [Xander.]

Xander: [Yes, Grandmother?]

Devi: [If I had, say, great grandchildren, you would tell me immediately, correct?]

Xander’s eyes drifted off towards Shiro, the two now sharing the same appearance.

Taking a deep breath, Xander prepared himself for what would come next.

Xander: [Grandmother, allow me to state that I love Shiro with all of my heart and I would never do a single thing to hurt nor falsely accuse her of anything.]

For a brief second, he fell silent.

Xander: [With that said… It’s her fault.]

Shiro: [Wha–]

Xander: [She jumped on me before we were even married and I couldn’t calm her down and–GACK!]

Devi: [YOU CALL THAT AN ACCEPTABLE EXCUSE, YOUNG MAN?!]

In a mere second, Devi forcefully grabbed Xander’s arm and twisted it into an arm lock. All the while Shiro stood in the doorway to her own house, watching as her grandmother-in-law mercilessly attacked her husband.

Xander: [It’s the truth, Grandmother! AHK! I swear! GHNK! She’s the reason we had one before we were–]

Devi: [I DON’T CARE WHETHER YOU WERE MARRIED OR NOT, OR THE FACT THAT SHE WAS THE ONE WHO STARTED THE ACT, YOU’RE THE GRANDCHILD, NOT HER! THE PERSON WHO SHOULD COME TO ME WITH THIS NEWS IS YOU!]

Xander: [I was going to! BAH! I swear! GNK!]

Devi: [YOU’VE HAD THREE ALREADY! WAS THE FIRST NOT ENOUGH OF A SIGN TO DO SO?!]

Xander: [It’s more complicated than that! HK! You’ve gotta listen to me! GHI!]

Devi: [WHY SHOULD I?! YOU’VE BEEN DOING JUST FINE HIDING THESE THINGS FROM ME!]

Xander: [Shiro! Help!]

Devi: [DO NOT HELP HIM! IT IS HIS FAULT, NOT YOURS!]

Shiro: [I… I don’t know what to say anymore.]

While Shiro continued to watch, a new voice popped up from behind her.

???: [It sssseemssss the ssssecret issss out.]

Looking over her shoulder, Shiro glanced at the familiar couple beside her of Silvia and Alf Bloodfire.

Shiro: [Yeah. I might have said a little bit too much.]

Silvia: [Would you like ssssome help?]

Shiro: [Help? How so?]

Silvia: [I ssssee a ssssoloution that might be mutually beneficial.]

Alf: [Honey? What’re you getting at?]

Adjusting his hat nervously, Alf stared at his dangerous wife who glared back at him. On the opposite side, Shiro started to show a devilish smile.

Shiro: [Oh, please do.]

Taking a deep breath from her mouth, Silvia shouted her next words to Devi.

Silvia: [Misssss Devi! Alf did the ssssame thing!]

Alf: [HONE–]

Devi: [HE WHAT?!]

Again, Shiro saw a streak of red fly by as Alf was tackled and placed into an armlock right outside the front door.

Devi: [BOTH OF YOU! IN THE KITCHEN! RIGHT NOW! YOU’RE COOKING FOR THE REST OF THE FAMILY WITHOUT A WORD TALKED BACK!]

Alf: [Y-Yes, ma’am–AIE!]

Devi: [MOVE IT!]

Lifting Alf off the grass, Devi provided a swift kick to his rear causing him to sprint inside and to the kitchen. She then focused her anger back onto her previous target.

Devi: [XANDER! IF I COME BACK INSIDE AND YOU AREN’T IN THERE, THE ARMLOCK WILL BE THE LEAST OF YOUR WORRIES!]

Xander: [Y-Yes… ma’am…]

Slowly lifting himself off the ground, Xander stumbled as he made his way towards the kitchen. Before he made it however, Shiro walked up to him and gave him a prolonged kiss on the cheek.

Shiro: [Hi, darling! I’m glad to be home!]

Xander: [Glad… to have you home… honey… If only… it didn’t include… her…]

As Xander entered the kitchen, Devi walked back into the house.

Devi: [Haah. That was exhausting. Shiro, where is your washroom? I need to splash my face after this entire ordeal.]

Shiro: [Upstairs and the first door on your right. You can’t miss it.]

Devi: [Thank you. See to it that they continue working. If Kōkatsu and anyone else with her arrive, do not let them help.]

Shiro: [Understood. I’ll keep watch of things with Sil.]

Making her way up the stairs, Devi adjusted her long red hair as she turned to the hallway.

Moving down, she continued to focus on the door that approached her right… until the sounds of small footsteps echoing through the hall could be heard.

From the passage of the current hallway to the next, she watched as a small girl appeared with white hair reaching the girl’s neck. Wearing a dark gray turtleneck taking much after her mother’s sense of style, jeans and black socks, she halted her movement as she looked up at Devi. What was then visible was a crimson color within her circled eyes, symbolizing that she was a high ranking succubus as well.

With a polite smile shared between them, the girl introduced herself.

Yui: [Hello! My name is Yui! Yui Bloodfire! What is your name, Miss?]

Devi: [My, you’re quite well mannered! My name is Devi Bloodfire! It’s nice to meet you, Yui!]

A look of surprise attached itself to the girl’s happy face.

Yui: [Miss Devi, are you another member of our family?!]

Devi: [Indeed I am! I just so happen to be your great grandmother!]

Yui: [Wow! I wasn’t sure what our great grandmother looked like! Dad always said nice things, but never showed us!]

Devi: [I see. Well, I made sure to give him a piece of my mind, so don’t worry! If you don’t mind me asking, however, you have two siblings, correct? Where might they be now?]

Yui: [Ah! Sorry, Great Grandmother Devi! They usually hide when they hear yelling because of Mom, and there was loud shouting downstairs a few minutes ago. Were they painting Mom’s clothes again?]

Devi: [O-Oh! No, no! Nothing of the sort! You don’t need to worry about that! It’s unfortunate that I cannot meet them, but I’m sure I’ll find the time. For the time being, you should go see your mother. She’s probably missed you very much over this past week.]

Yui: [Ah! Right! I also promised Dad that I would help! I forgot!]

Devi: [Don’t worry about him. Your uncle has kindly decided to help. For now, go see your mother. She might have a few people for you to meet!]

Yui: [Really?! Even more new people?! Wow!]

Devi: [Yes. It should be very fun to speak with–... Come to think of it, did we leave the carriages with them?... Oh no. Alright, Yui. I have a very important task for you.]

Yui: [Yes!]

Devi: [Go down and tell your mother to search for “her team”. We were distracted with things at the time and ended up only speaking with each other.]

Yui: [Yes, ma’am!]

Watching as the girl ran towards the stairs, Devi kept her smile present at all times. While viewing Yui’s exit, something had felt off to her. She turned to look down the hall again only to see something move away. As she slowly approached to view what this was, she was met with an empty hall.

Devi: [Perhaps I imagined it.]

Making her way back to the washroom, Devi prepared herself for the meal.

Around twenty minutes later, not only had Kōkatsu shown up with Kaoru and Kiyomi in tow, but the three Shiro had to quickly search for. After they were brought up to speed on everything, both Shiro and Devi revealed who Shiro’s mother was to them.

While Bachi did not care and was instead annoyed that it took more than an hour for Shiro to arrive, a look of pure depression was slapped onto the faces of Hidari and Migi, the both of which missed their opportunity to meet their idol.

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At one point in time, I sat by my lonesome. Not a single person on the throne next to me. Just I who sat on my own.

Xander: [You need to eat your sprouts, Alf. Otherwise you aren’t gonna get as bulky as you want to be!]

Alf: [Shut it! I’m a grown man! I’ll eat what I want and become fit in my own way!]

Silvia: [I for one enjoy hissss sssslim appearanssssse]

I did not eat. I did not drink. I barely slept. I had almost allowed my body to rot away with each passing day.

Kōkatsu: [So, I’m curious. How does the whole red hair, red eyes thing work for the Bloodfire family? Is it jus’ random?]

Devi: [Anyone within the family can receive the hair and eye color as well as a chance that they may not receive it. There is even a chance for just one or the other. The only time in which it is guaranteed is if twins, triplets, or anything beyond that is born. Those children will be forced to have the Bloodfire red hair and eyes no matter what.]

Alf: [Huh. I actually didn’t know that. I guess it makes sense when I really start to think about it.]

Even after I recovered, there was no one that I ate with. I sat on my throne, with a small table in front of me where my food was placed.

Hidari: [It feels very interesting to sit at the same table as gods and royalty. Nonetheless a daughter of the woman I admire.]

Migi: [Hopefully we’ll get to meet Airi on our own at some point. I’m not sure if I’m ready for it, though.]

Kaoru: [I can safely say, neither I nor Kiyomi was ready for such a thing.]

Kiyomi: [Hah! You’ve got that right! It’s crazy seeing her in person!]

I was not alone in a certain sense, yet I felt so very lonely at that time. It had been years since I last ate together with someone.

Yui: [Here you go, Big Sister Bachi!]

Bachi: [Heh. Thanks kid. Maybe n’ya aren’t as lame as I thought.]

Shiro: [Bachi!]

Bachi: [What?! I’m jus’ sayin’!]

… Damon. I’m sorry.

Xander: [Oh, you might like to hear this, Grandmother. Shiro has the same favorite artist as you.]

Devi: [Like grandmother-in-law, like granddaughter-in-law. Which song is your favorite, Shiro?]

Shiro: [Oh, well, there’s a lot to pick from… Call me basic, but there's a reason why his most popular song is the way it is.]

Devi: [An excellent choice, but frankly I find his other song about The Moon to be my favorite.]

It’s not that I’m sorry because of what I’ve done to myself, or what I did in your name.

Kōkatsu: [There was one time that Shiro couldn’t find the keys to her office. Me and Sil kept tossin’ ‘em to each other without her noticin’!]

Shiro: [It wasn’t that funny!]

Silvia: [It wassss pretty funny.]

Shiro: [You don’t get a say in this!]

But I’m sorry for how long it took me to find this road. I wasn’t sure that I would ever make it to a place like this. A place where I can be with my family again.

Xander: [Ba-dada-ba! Some champagne for all of us!]

Shiro: [Except for Yui!]

Everyone: [Except for Yui!]

Yui: [Hmph!]

But I can safely say it now, Damon. I wasn’t sure at first. I wasn’t sure I could even grow used to it or if I was even worthy of experiencing such a thing. However, I’m sure that I can now.

Everyone: [Cheers!]

…I’m truly happy here.

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After many had already left, only a handful remained in the household of Xander Bloodfire and Shiro Fuloreen. Among them were that of the family themselves, as well as Shiro’s three officers and Devi Bloodfire. Standing by the kitchen sink, Devi continued to assist Shiro with the process of washing dishes. Xander had gone upstairs and, at Shiro’s request, prepared the guest beds along with their very own for the sake of saving time.

Moving back into the kitchen after being upstairs herself, Shiro picked up a dish and started to rinse it.

Shiro: [All of the children are tucked in and asleep, though it’s unfortunate that the other two couldn’t meet you today. They decided to eat in their room for the night. My deadly trio are also in their rooms now. I guess it’s just me, you, and Xander who are still up and moving.]

Devi: [Knowing my grandson, I would not be surprised if he fell asleep shortly after making your bed.]

Shiro: [Well, you’re close. He’s in there reading a book.]

The two giggled at the almost perfect guess Devi gave.

Shiro: [... You’re feeling better now, right?]

Devi: [Yes. Incredibly so. I haven’t felt like this since… well, when I was the same age as you!]

Shiro: [I see. It makes sense why you would, but I guess you really loved your husband a lot, right?]

Devi: [Indeed. My drive for him was endless, if you will. I’m rather shocked by your own however.]

Raising an eyebrow, Shiro looked at the azure woman beside her.

Shiro: [What do you mean?]

Devi: [I can tell that there is an immense level of love between the two of you, yet it seems like you’re suppressing it rather heavily.]

Shiro: [Well, yeah. I shouldn’t go crazy, right?]

Devi: [Why shouldn’t you? Love is something far greater than any other emotion. You should let your feelings run wild, Shiro. Let the love for him consume you as a whole.]

Shiro: [Y-You’re sure?!]

Devi: [I am. You should be free with your emotions, Shiro… Shiro?]

As Devi turned to face her friend, she witnessed an odd look that had taken over. Shiro had seemed tired, yet she was not. On top of this, from her cheeks to her ears was a bright beet red color.

Shiro: [Devi.]

Devi: [Yes?]

Shiro: [Mind taking care of the dishes for me? Oh, and if any of the kids wake up, tell them to go back to bed.]

Devi: [Understood.]

Thus, Shiro disappeared.

The sounds of the dishes in Devi’s hands being washed was the only thing that occupied her ears.

That was until she could faintly hear in the distance–

Xander: [Are you alright, honey? Wait–WAIT! WAIT! WAIT! GIVE ME A SECOND TO GET READY! SHIRO, WAIT!]

As she continued washing the dishes, Devi’s face slowly became disturbed as she realized the reason behind why she was asked to do these tasks.

Devi: [Was “drive” perhaps the wrong word?]

As Devi finished the dishes and made her way to the stairs, a single terrifying thought entered her head.

Devi: [I suppose that answers what happened to handcuffs I lent Xander. Now that I know, I don't believe I’ll be taking them back.]

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Many within the house were already asleep.

Not a single light had still been on.

Not a sound could be heard.

In the room that the legendary Braveheart slept in.

The door between her and the outside hallway slowly crept open.

On the other side was a small figure who simply stared for several moments.

They stared and stared, until eventually they closed the door and ran off into their room.

Little did the figure know, Devi smiled as they disappeared, completely aware of their presence.

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